Viña Gravonia 1999

Wine: Viña Gravonia 1999
Winery: R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia (Haro, La Rioja)
Appellation / Region: D.O.Ca. Rioja
Varietals: 100% Viura.
ABV: 12.5% 

Winemaking
Initial fermentation conducted in large oak vats, where the wine rested until the completion of all fermentative processes prior to racking. It underwent an aging period of 4 years in 225-liter American oak barriques, with two traditional manual rackings (trasiegas) performed annually. Fined with fresh egg whites and bottled directly from the barrel—unfiltered. Limited production of 28,900 bottles. The wine rested for a minimum of 2 years in the winery's subterranean bottle cellar before its commercial release. 

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Brilliant golden-yellow hue with vivid orange glints. It displays a notable viscosity with fine, elegant legs.

 

Nose: Quintessential and highly recognizable. This 1999 vintage shows a rare maturity, offering notes of fruit pulp and purée, cabello de ángel (pumpkin jam), and festive pastry hints (candied fruits and brioche). The bouquet is underpinned by an intense chalky minerality and bitter almonds. The oak influence appears perfectly integrated, with the primary and secondary aromas giving way to evolving notes of quince, honey, and rosemary.

 

Palate: Greasy and voluminous on the palate, yet bone-dry and mature. It is characterized by sweet citrus notes, reduced stone fruit, and the subtle, finely-etched bitter tannins from the oak. Elegant and seamless, it is savory and highly approachable. The wine is currently at its peak: fresh, rounded, and fully resolved. Unlike the 2001 vintage, this bottling is built for immediate enjoyment rather than further cellaring. A masterful example of the López de Heredia family's consistency in producing world-class white wines.

 

Personal Score: 90
Tasting Group Score: 90